HYPSOMETRIC CURVES AS A TOOL FOR PALEOSURFACE MAPPING

Abstract

A procedural paleosurface mapping tool, using hypsometric curves and digital elevation models, was developed and applied to three hydrographic basins that erode common areas in the coastal ranges of Brazil, in southeastern South America. The method consists of identifying areas favorable for the occurrence of paleosurfaces and their corresponding surficial formations as correlated to specific erosion events. Attributes from hypsometric curves, and logarithmic functions fitted to proper curve segments, are combined with common morphometric properties of paleosurfaces given a set of criteria. Zones satisfying the criteria are mapped as pertaining to specific paleosurfaces. Field survey confirms the agreement between predicted and observed occurrence and absence of paleosurfaces.